Belly Dancing and Health!

Everyone knows that dancing is a healthy physical activity, but not everyone knows that specific kinds of dancing have unique kinds of health benefits. Such is the case with belly dancing. As this blog is a chronicle of belly dancing information, I thought this would be a good place to begin:

* Belly dancing stimulates weight loss. It

has been known to burn up to 300 calories an hour depending on the intensity of the movements. If coupled with additional cardiovascular exercise, it can be a very effective way to shed pounds and tone muscles of the entire body.

* Aids proper digestion. The wave-like movements and contractions of the torso create an internal massage, and stimulate the body to effectively digest food. In addition, regular dancing improves circulation, which in turn improves the body’s digestive process.

* Prepares for childbirth. The hip tucks learned in belly dancing are similar to the “pelvic rocking” movements expectant women learn prior to pregnancy. Women learn to move their pelvis while muscles of the pelvis and hips are strengthened.

* Tones Muscles.In addition to the muscles of the torso and back, the shoulders and arms also receive a workout in belly dancing because they are held aloft throughout the dance and moved gracefully.

* Improves coordination and balance. Belly dancing exercises the muscles surrounding the hips during moves such as hip drops, and figure eights. These movements enhance flexibility and can lead to improved balance when the dancer resumes normal every day walking.

* Improves posture and strengthens bones. As a weight bearing exercise, belly dancing can strengthen bones and joints, prevent osteoporosis and facilitate gentle recovery from joint injuries. When muscle groups are weak, the spine unnaturally curves forward. The muscles groups of the back that are normally under-exercised are used and strengthened while dancing help to improve posture and prevent back pain.

So, if you need to get yourself in shape or are just feeling a little aimless, precocious about your body, or don't know where to begin, belly dancing is a good activity to help you work out some of the kinks. Don't be shy get off of your butt, find a class, and give it a try.

P.S. For anyone wanting a chiseled stomach. No other human activity could come close to giving it to you like this!